Harbin’s Ice and Snow Festival Begins With a Frozen River Harvest
Harbin is gearing up for its famous Ice and Snow Festival, a major event in China’s winter tourism scene. Each year, the festival draws millions of visitors eager to see its stunning ice sculptures and illuminated displays. This time, preparations have begun with the traditional harvest of ice from the frozen Songhua River.
The festival’s centrepiece is its sculptures, carved from massive blocks of natural river ice. Local artists and craftspeople, many with decades of experience, shape the ice into intricate structures and towering works of art. The ice itself is prized for its strength and crystal-clear quality, making it ideal for detailed carving.
Workers have already started cutting and collecting blocks from the Songhua River, a process known as the 'ice harvest'. This tradition dates back to the 1960s, when Harbin first began transforming its frozen waterways into a winter wonderland. Once harvested, the ice is transported to the festival site, where sculptors turn it into everything from grand palaces to delicate figurines.
The festival is not just a local attraction but a key driver of China’s growing winter tourism industry. Across the country, ski resorts and indoor snow centres are expanding to encourage more domestic travel during the colder months. Harbin’s event remains one of the most iconic, blending artistry with the region’s harsh winter climate.
At night, the sculptures are lit up, creating a dazzling spectacle that draws crowds from across China and beyond. The combination of traditional craftsmanship and modern lighting techniques ensures the festival stays a highlight of the winter season.
The Ice and Snow Festival continues to play a vital role in Harbin’s economy and China’s broader push for winter tourism. With preparations now underway, the city is set to welcome another wave of visitors in the coming weeks. The event’s mix of natural beauty and artistic skill keeps it firmly on the map as a must-see winter destination.
